Heat and Sun Illnesses Can be Serious: What To Watch For And What To Do!

Heat and Sun Illnesses Can be Serious: What To Watch For And What To Do!

Be aware of the outdoor heat and sun conditions; because your body can easily be exposed to too much it can’t handle. According to the annual statistical report for heat-related injuries, 372 people died in 2013 from exposure to excessive heat. These heat-related illnesses can escalate rapidly, leading to delirium, organ damage and even death.

The heat-related illnesses include heatstroke (the most severe), heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Those most at risk include:

Infants and young children

Elderly people

Pets

Individuals with heart or circulatory problems or other long-term illness

People who work outdoors

Athletes and people who like to exercise – especially beginners

Individuals taking medications that alter sweat production

Alcoholics and drug abusers

The following heat-related illnesses to watch for and what should do to help.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke can occur when the ability to sweat fails and body temperature rises quickly. The brain and vital organs are effectively “cooked” as body temperature rises to a dangerous level in a matter of minutes. Heatstroke is often fatal, and those who do survive may have permanent damage to their organs. Someone experiencing heatstroke will have extremely hot skin, and an altered mental state, ranging from slight confusion to coma. Seizures also can result. Ridding the body of excess heat is crucial for survival.

Move the person into a half-sitting position in the shade

Call for emergency medical help immediately

If humidity is below 75%, spray the victim with water and fan them vigorously; if humidity is above 75%, apply ice to neck, armpits or groin

Do not give aspirin or acetaminophen

Do not give the victim anything to drink

Heat Exhaustion

When the body loses an excessive amount of salt and water, heat exhaustion can set in. People who work outdoors and athletes are particularly susceptible. Symptoms are similar to those of the flu and can include severe thirst, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting and, sometimes, diarrhea. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, clammy or pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse and normal or slightly elevated body temperature. Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can evolve into heatstroke, so make sure to treat the victim quickly.

Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area

Give them water or other cool, nonalcoholic beverages

Apply wet towels or having them take a cool shower

Heat cramps

Heat cramps are muscle spasms that usually affect the legs or abdominal muscles, often after physical activity. Excessive sweating reduces salt levels in the body, which can result in heat cramps. Workers or athletes with pain or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs should not return to work for a few hours. Instead:

Sit or lie down in the shade.

Drink cool water or a sports drink.

Stretch affected muscles.

Seek medical attention if you have heart problems or if the cramps don’t get better in an hour.

The best way to avoid a heat-related illness is to limit exposure outdoors during hot days. Air conditioning is the best way to cool off. You also will want to:

Drink more liquid than you think you need and avoid alcohol

Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a hat

Replace salt lost from sweating by drinking fruit juice or sports drinks

Avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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